72.8% of employers are struggling to find the ideal candidate, according to a report by ManpowerGroup.
Hiring is a long and strenuous process, and locating top talent is never easy. The recruitment needs of a small business vary from that of a large enterprise.
For a smooth and successful recruitment process, you need an applicant tracking system (ATS).
This software helps you to advertise positions in job boards, engage applicants, screen multiple resumes, acquire the right talent, store all applications, and make the hiring efforts more efficient.
Whichever niche you are in, you will need an ATS. Here’s what you need to know before selecting an ATS system for your small business.
Consider Your Unique Business Requirements
Every business has different priorities and goals. Note that not every system will offer a solution to your situation.
First, assess your recruitment needs, figure out what challenges the system should fix, and how it will boost your recruitment efforts.
Also, work out whether you will utilize it to post adverts, to track applicants or for a combination of purposes.
When you have a clear objective, conduct extensive research to know the options you have. The size of your business also matters, and you need software that can bring results depending on the size of your enterprise.
Look at how various applicant tracking systems are used by other companies in your specific industry to streamline their recruitment processes.
The Features of the System
ATS systems are not all similar. Some are built with features that are meant to cater to a specific pool of business while others have all-encompassing capabilities.
Therefore, you should determine what system properties you need and those you don’t need.
Choose a flexible system whose functions you can customize along the way to serve your changing business needs.
Other critical system features include:
- ease-of-use
- reporting tools to help you identify details such as the number of applicants and their source
- ability to tag good candidates
- interview management
- speed
- email capabilities
- mobile-readiness
- access to upgrades
- and customer support.
Talk to Different Vendors
Consulting with vendors can help you gain useful insights on what to expect in the market.
Make a list of questions that you will ask the various vendors you meet. Make sure you are clear on what you are looking for and ask the vendor to explain how their software will help you achieve your objectives.
It’s also best you pick a vendor who is more of a partner. A provider who will train you during the implementation phase, offer consistent support, and be there for you in the long-term.
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Pricing
Every business wants value for the money spent on investment. Before you start scouting for an ATS, you need to ask yourself some questions.
How much are you willing to pay for the system? What are the indirect costs? As small businesses operate on small budgets, it’s best you try to keep your costs down.
Start by taking a closer look at subscription fees, training fees, and support expenses. This will allow you to know what you are getting into and to make a decision that is financially sensible.
One of the best ways to minimize your costs is going with a system which you pay depending on the capabilities you want.
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Final Thoughts
It’s not easy for a small business to determine what the right applicant tracking system is. But with one, you will have a streamlined recruitment process. Before making a decision, remember you always have the option of going through the system’s reviews or using a demo version before buying the full software.